Former Zanesville Fire Chief Passes Away

The community is mourning the loss of one of its own today.

Former Fire Chief and Zanesville resident William Wagner passed away around 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the Genesis Good Samaritan Hospital. He was 82-years-old. Wagner retired as fire chief for the city of Zanesville in 1986 after 33 years of service. Current Fire Chief Dave Lacy had the privilege of working with him.

"He was a very good chief to work for, he was very instrumental in bringing the department into the modern ages as far as heavy rescue equipment, that was kind of a special project of his."

Lacy says that Wagner continued to be active with the fire department even after he retired, he always made it a point to stop by and spend time with the firefighters.

"He would tell his experiences and his stories and have fun with the men and he was just a great guy and he’s certainly going to be missed."

Wagner is survived by his of 61 years Betty, their three daughters, four grandchildren and eight great grandchildren and his beloved K-9, Bridgette.

Calling hours will be held between 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday at the Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home at 1271 Blue Avenue in Zanesville, and also one hour prior to services at the church. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the First Christian Church at 3000 Dresden Road in Zanesville with Reverend Dawn Remster officiating. Burial will follow at the Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Shelter Society, Inc. at 1430 Newark Road in Zanesville.